SecGen’s message to the OIC Council on Foreign Ministers – Statement (excerpts)

18 June 2014

SECRETARY-GENERAL STRESSES ORGANIZATION OF ISLAMIC COOPERATION'S
 KEY ROLE IN RESOLVING VARIOUS IMMEDIATE CRISES, LONG-TERM PURSUIT

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I regret that the Middle East peace process has reached another impasse.  There is no substitute to negotiations to achieve the two-State solution.  The parties must avoid further unilateral steps, including illegal settlements.  Religious freedom and access to holy sites for worshippers of all faiths, in particular in Jerusalem, must be preserved.

I continue to support the interim national consensus Government established within the framework of the Palestine Liberation Organization’s commitments and under the leadership of President [Mahmoud] Abbas, and the reunification of the West Bank and Gaza under the legitimate Palestinian Authority, which is an indispensable part of a permanent settlement.  Improving the lives of the Palestinian people, in particular in Gaza, remains challenging.  I count on all Members of the OIC to lend their generous support.

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For information media • not an official record